The Big Goal
The overarching goal of the community teaching project at Design and Architecture Senior High School in Miami, Florida, is to promote the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among adolescents. According to the studies, nearly a fifth of the US high school students regularly partake in sexual risk behaviors (Szucs et al., 2020). This fact suggests the importance of promoting knowledge on STD prevention among sexually active high school students.
Objectives
- To increase knowledge and awareness about the risks and consequences of STDs among high school students.
- To enhance understanding of safe sexual practices and effective methods of preventing STDs.
- To promote the importance of regular screenings and testing for STDs among adolescents.
- To encourage open and honest communication about sexual health between adolescents, their peers, and trusted adults.
- To empower adolescents to make informed decisions regarding their sexual health and well-being.
The action plan includes collaborating with educators and healthcare professionals to develop a comprehensive STD curriculum covering all of the essential topics, including common STDs, modes of transmission, symptoms, prevention methods, and available treatments. Guest speakers and experts from the field will be invited to present their educated perspectives on the issue. At the same time, local healthcare facilities and organizations will be approached to provide medical professionals and resources. In addition, open discussions with students will be facilitated to promote dialogue, feedback, and a proper understanding of the topic.
SMART Objectives
Specific
By the end of the community teaching project, the participating high school students will demonstrate an understanding of the risks and consequences associated with different types of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The project will employ educational sessions, interactive discussions, and informational resources to promote a better understanding of the symptoms, transmission methods, and long-term impacts of STDs. This objective aims to empower students with the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions and take proactive steps in safeguarding their sexual health.
Measurable
At least 70% of included high school students will be able to appropriately identify and describe at least three STD prevention tactics after three months of the study. Students will learn the importance of practicing safe sex, including the use of barrier methods such as condoms. Additionally, the role of routine testing for sexually transmitted diseases will be emphasized. By reaching this goal, students will have the information and abilities to make moral decisions and safeguard their sexual health.
Achievable
At least 60% of the participating students will have completed at least one STD screening or testing procedure within six months of the experiment. The main idea of this project is to promote an understanding of the importance of routine STD testing and screening in the proactive prevention of STDs (Levy et al., 2019). The community teaching project will make it easier for students to receive private and affordable testing services by working with regional hospitals or clinics.
Relevant
By project completion, at least 90% of participating students will report increased comfort in discussing sexual health topics with peers and trusted adults, as shown by pre- and post-project surveys. This objective promotes open communication by creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment through interactive workshops and peer-led discussions. Attaining this objective will empower students to engage in informed discussions and make responsible decisions regarding their sexual well-being.
Time Specific
According to self-reported behavior surveys, within a year, at least 50% of participating students will routinely engage in safe sexual behaviors and make knowledgeable choices regarding their sexual health. This goal assesses how the community teaching initiative has affected students’ behavior and decision-making. The accomplishment of this goal shows students’ dedication to putting safe practices, informed judgment, and general sexual well-being first.
References
Levy, S. B., Gunta, J., & Edemekong, P. (2019). Screening for sexually transmitted diseases. Primary Care: Clinics in Office Practice, 46(1), 157-173. Web.
Szucs, L. E., Lowry, R., Fasula, A. M., Pampati, S., Copen, C. E., Hussaini, K. S., Kachur, R. E., Koumans, E. H., & Steiner, R. J. (2020). Condom and contraceptive use among sexually active high school students—Youth Risk Behavior Survey, United States, 2019. MMWR supplements, 69(1), 11–18. Web.